Pardaugava has the potential to become a new city center / Article

Interview with architect Andris KronbergsLinda Zalane00:00 / 00:00

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One of the starting points is “Press House Quarter“, which is starting to take on a new shape, and in the very near future there will be a new office building, a hotel and a multifunctional building with retail space, parking lots and an open sports center on the roof. This is just the beginning of Pardaugava’s new features. areas, population of the Daugava bank, cultural and educational institutions, the architect pointed out.

Latvian Radio and Kronberg took place the day before the project “Press House Quarter” ceremonial future message capsule was laid. This ambitious project is planned to be implemented by 2022, and it will definitely change the existing outlines of Pārdaugava architecture.

The press house has stood for many years abandoned and unused. Well, it gets new features.

Kronbergs said: “In the future, it is planned to transform the Press House Quarter into a new business center. In the first phase of the project, three objects will be developed – a new office building, one of the historic storage, and a sports center, park will be opened on the roof. “

He is convinced that with this project it is necessary to think about how to develop the shores of the Daugava – the Zunda canal and the edge of Āgenskalns Bay.

“It is necessary to create a unified outdoor system so that the residents have rest areas, greenery. Currently, the potential of the waterfront has not been used, but it is time to implement it,” said the architect.

There are several key objects on the left bank of the Daugava – universities, cultural institutions. This is a very good start.

“I have not abandoned AB dam as an ideal place for an acoustic concert hall. We recognized it in favor of an international council 20 years ago. When it comes to project construction costs, there is no difference in which Another issue is accessibility and connectivity, but it can be solved.

Although Pārdaugava is developing into a new center of Riga, it will not compete with the existing one. Every city needs an opportunity to develop.

“The historical center of Riga no longer has the capacity for new buildings. It is necessary to preserve cultural and historical values. The left bank of the Daugava is a good place to develop and build a new commercial center.” Press House Quarter “will give a strong signal,” said Kronbergs.

However, along with high-rise buildings, elements of the public outdoor space must be matched. Kronberg believes that it is necessary to connect green structures, parks, and make local benefits stronger and stronger.

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